A minor in African Studies is an ideal complement to a disciplinary major. It provides a multidisciplinary grounding in an important world area for those who want to pursue careers in a range of professions as well as for those who intend to go on to graduate school. Four different concentrations are possible, allowing students to tailor the minor to their own interests and needs. In addition to the tracks listed below, it is possible to do a general minor by taking courses from several of these concentrations.
Whether choosing the general minor or one of the track options, all students must take ONE of the following courses (3 credits each):
- AFS 2002 The African Experience
- AFH 2000 Africa in World History
- HUM 2420 African Humanities
Students opting for a general minor must also take four courses (12 credits) from across the disciplines; at least three of these must be at the 3000 level or above. All minor tracks require a total of 15 credits.
Track One: Languages and Linguistics
At least one two-semester sequence of an African language at the intermediate or advanced level (6 credits). Summer intensive language study may also be counted towards this requirement. Languages currently offered include Akan, Amharic, Arabic, Swahili, Wolof, Xhosa, and Yoruba. Others may become available in the future – please inquire with the undergraduate coordinator. In addition, one of more courses from the relevant offerings in Languages Literatures & Cultures, or Linguistics. At least two of these courses must be at the 3000 level or above.
Languages and Linguistics (Track I)
Track Two: Arts and Literatures
Four or more courses from the relevant offerings in Languages Literatures & Culture, Art History, Music, or Theatre and Dance, for a total of 12 credits. At least two of these courses must be at the 3000 level and above.
Arts and Literatures (Track II)
Track Three: Culture, History, and Politics
Culture, History, and Politics (Track III)
Track Four: Environment, Resources, and Development
Four or more courses from the relevant offerings in Anthropology, Food and Resource Economics, Forest Resources and Conservation, Geography, History, Political Science, or Wildlife Ecology, for a total of 12 credits. At least three of these courses must be at the 3000 level or above, and no more than two courses should be from any one discipline.
Environment, Resources, and Development (Track IV)
New Africa-related courses in each of the four tracks may count toward the minor as they become available. Please consult the undergraduate advisor concerning the eligibility of any particular course. Transfer credits from approved study abroad programs in Africa or from other U.S. colleges and universities may be counted toward the minor upon verification by the African Studies undergraduate advisor.
University of Florida students seeking to apply study abroad credit must take at least one three-credit course in residence. Transfer students from other institutions must take at least two three-credit courses in residence at UF.
All courses for the minor must be completed with a grade of C or better. Students considering an African Studies minor are encouraged to consult with the African Studies undergraduate advisor. Those who wish to declare a minor in African Studies must meet with the undergraduate advisor at the Center for African Studies.
Awarding of the minor will occur upon certification by the African Studies undergraduate advisor that the applicant has completed all of the requirements. The minor will appear on the student’s University of Florida transcript.
For further information or consultation, please contact:
Dr. Todd H. Leedy
(352) 392-2183
tleedy@ufl.edu